"Public" means the pool or spa is used by people other than the owners or private guests, such as a community center lap pool, a recreational water park, a school pool, or a spa at a hotel or apartment complex.

Contra Costa Environmental Health regularly inspects more than 1,600 permitted facilities to ensure they comply with state laws and regulations.

Our agency must also approve new construction or major changes to an existing public pool or spa before work begins.

For detailed information about Environmental Health's expectations for proper maintenance and physical characteristics of a public pool or spa – what our inspectors evaluate – check this guide.

We also have inspectors available to answer questions by appointment or telephone.

Cloudy water or strong chlorine odor could mean improper chemical treatment, a filter malfunction or contamination. Indoor pools need proper ventilation – check with a local building department for more information.

Pool Safety

Operators should familiarize themselves with the body of law collectively called "the pool code," which includes:

California Health & Safety Code

California Code of Regulations Title 22

California Building Code Title 24

Virginia Graeme Baker Pool & Spa Safety Act (federal)

Pool and Spa Safety Act – Assembly Bill 1020 (state)

Environmental Health inspectors assess all public pools and spas based on these laws. To ensure that your pool is up to date with all legal safety standards, this guide includes instructions and advice for all maintenance and physical features of public pools and spas in Contra Costa County.

Note that several popular models of pool and in-ground spa drain covers were recalled in 2011 for safety reasons.

Construction or Remodel

EMERGENCIES
Call 911 immediately if there is an injury or life-threatening hazard in or around your public pool or spa.
Immediately clear the pool area.
Follow instructions from police, fire and other first responders.
Within 24 hours, call Environmental Health at 925-692-2500.